New MicroForce FMA Series, a small footprint digital force sensor, which enables intelligence in applications

Force sensors have traditionally been utilized in medical applications, such as infusion pumps and hemodialysis machines while the new MicroForce series is also suitable for various industrial applications.

The FMA series is small form-factor (5mm x 5mm) piezoresistive-based force sensor with a digital output capable of operating in multiple ranges, measuring force up to 25 newtons. The small form-factor supports new designs and the digital output reduces the time and cost of new product development projects for medical and industrial applications. The FMA Series is amplified, calibrated and temperature compensated for sensor offset, sensitivity, temperature effects, and nonlinearity using an on-board Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). New MicroForce products are offered with a choice of force ranges and digital outputs (I2C and SPI). The high accuracy and performance, in a small package, enables the use of force sensors in machines that traditionally have not had sensor-based control and feedback loops.

The sensor usage within industrial knitting machines is monitoring the yarn/thread tension, helping to provide feedback for precise control.

MicroForce can be utilized within high-end kitchen appliances and commercial / industrial kitchen equipments such as mixers, kettles, and blenders, to provide precision speed control, as well as ingredient measurement and dispensing information.

FMA Series can also operate within smart vending/pharmaceutical dispensing machines to monitor the amount of product being displaced, allowing remote monitoring and enabling improved inventory management.

Within coffee and espresso machines, the sensor enables precision ingredient measurement and dispensing information, critical factors that directly affect the quality of the final product.

MicroForce can also be used in robotic surgery, helping to mimic the dexterity of human hands and wrists. This tactile force helps to ensure proper instrument grip.